Pakistan win by 205 runs

Pakistan open their World Cup campaign with a comprehensive victory over Kenya. After slipping to 12-2 early on, four batsmen scored half-centuries in a total of 317-7 and skipper Shahid Afridi claimed 5-16 with his leg-spin as Kenya slumped to 112 all out in reply. Thanks for your company today and join us again tomorrow at 0900h (GMT) for commentary on South Africa v West Indies.

Over 34 Gul W

112ao - Wicket! Gul needs just one ball to finish off proceedings, bowling Ngoche to seal a 205-run victory for Pakistan.

Over 33 Afridi W-0-0-0-0-0

112-9 - Wicket! Obuya misses out on his half-century after going for one big hit too many. Shehzad at long-on takes the catch to complete Afridi's fourth five-wicket haul in 313 ODIs. Wicket! Odhiambo departs to a comical run out - Ngoche refused to answer his call and Misbah hit the stumps direct from backward point. Kenya on the brink.

Over 32 Hafeez 0-0-4-6-1-0

112-7 - Obuya is dealing in boundaries, dispatching a full toss straight for four and then adding his third sixth of the innings, again over long-on after making some room. He cheekily keeps hold of the strike with a reverse sweep.

Over 31 Afridi 4-1-0-0-W-0

101-7 - Obuya stays on the attack against Afridi with another lofted boundary and is then dropped by Misbah, who raced in from long-on but couldn't quite cling on after Obuya dragged another aerial drive. Wicket! More lbw action for Afridi - that's three now for the Pakistan skipper and four wickets in total - as Odoyo pads up to his googly.

Over 30 Hafeez 2-6-0-1-0-0

96-6 - Obuya looks like he's going to go down in flames - twice he advances to Hafeez, the first time picking up two with a lofted drive after failing to get to the pitch and the second time dispatching it all the way back over the bowler's head for six.

Over 29 Afridi 2-0-W-0-0-0

87-6 - Wicket! Kamande's stay is brief as Afridi adds another lbw victim. Again it was a quick delivery that angled in through the air and off the pitch and Kamande padded up right in front of middle. Afridi thinks he's got new batsman Odoyo second ball as well - this time he asks for a review of umpire Llong's decision to turn down his lbw shout. The ruling on the field stands as replays show the ball to be sliding down the leg side after hitting Odoyo on the toe.

Over 28 Hafeez 4-1-0-wd-0-W

85-5 - Obuya greets the introduction of Hafeez's off-spin by getting down on one knee to drill his first ball to the square-leg fence with a sweep. Wicket! Rakep Patel's attempt to emulate his partner ends in personal disaster - a top edge is easily taken by Umar Akmal at square-leg and Patel is on his way for a six-ball duck.

Over 27 Afridi 0-0-W-0-0-0

79-4 - Wicket! Pakistan, having earlier had a wicket chalked off by the review system, this time benefit from the technology. Umpire Llong turned down an lbw shout against Mishra and Afridi, who had dropped a tough caught-and-bowled chance two balls earlier from the same batsman, sent it upstairs. Hawkeye showed the ball - a quicker delivery - as hitting leg-stump quite near the top. The decision is oveturned, although it wasn't exactly a shocker from Llong.

Over 26 Rehman 0-0-0-0-0-0

79-3 - Kenya don't appear to have any interest in chasing these runs, instead seem to be playing to restore some pride. They are producing a decent argument in support of the ICC's decision to cut the number of teams at the next World Cup.

Over 25 Afridi 0-4-0-0-0-0

79-3 - Afridi is so keen to get on with it that even the umpires aren't ready - calm down! His haste doesn't pay off as a short, wide ball is cut away to the backward point boundary by Mishra.

Over 24 Rehman 0-0-0-0-1-0

76-3 - Mishra adds another single to Kenya's total, this time worked out to square-leg. Rehman's accuracy has been impressive, don't think he's bowled a single loose delivery in seven overs.

Over 23 Afridi 0-W-0-1-0-0

75-3 - Wicket! Tikolo becomes another to fail miserably after I talked him up. His becalmed innings (33 off 13 balls) is ended by Afridi, who sneaks one between bat and pad to bowl Tikolo as he advanced. New batsman Mishra is greeted by Afridi's mid-70s mph quicker delivery - he looked surprised but fortunately was able to shoulder arms and allow the ball to pass outside off-stump. Mishra opens his account with a single pushed to mid-on.

Over 22 Rehman 0-0-0-2-6-0

74-2 - Obuya breaks the shackles with a classy shot, taking a couple of steps down and then dispatching the ball all the way just to the leg side of straight.

Over 21 Afridi 2-1-0-0-0-1

66-2 - Sweeping Afridi is usually fraught with danger as his collection of top spinners make a beeline for the stumps - sometimes at 75mph+. Obuya and Tikolo nevertheless enjoy some success with the shot, picking up a combined four from the over.

Over 20 Rehman 0-0-0-1-0-1

62-2 - Obuya sweeps for a single and Tikolo finally shows some attacking intent, dancing down before miscuing a drive behind square on the off side for one.

Sohail Khan in London

"I think it's a pretty balanced team but we will find that out soon when Pakistan plays against a better side. Opening pair seems severely constipated for runs!"

Over 19 Afridi 0-0-0-0-0-0

60-2 - Afridi - a nightmare for over-by-over commentators because he bowls his overs so quickly - brings himself on and immediately races his way through a maiden. Tikolo looks determined to ensure Kenya at least bat deep into their 50-over allocation - although he has looked less keen on trying to score some runs so far.

Over 18 Rehman 1-0-0-1-0-0

60-2 - Both Obuya and Tikolo are very watchful against Rehman, who hasn't turned one off the straight yet but is mixing up his pace and flight nicely. Kenya's required-rate has climbed above eight already. On the plus side they have almost surpassed their efforts against New Zealand.

Over 17 Gul 0-1-0nb-0-2-0

58-2 - Tikolo may be 39 but he still looks a class act with the bat, easily evading a decent short ball from Gul. Tikolo has three ODI centuries to his name and is one of the best batsmen ever to emerge from outside the established Test nations - may be the best of the lot? Ed Joyce and Eoin Morgan might disagree I suppose.

Big Fella in England

"Mad Bob is living up to his name. Kenya haven't got a chance. Pakistan are a class act."

Over 16 Rehman 0-1-1-0-1-0

54-2 - Rehman is pushing it through and has done a nice job since his early introduction. Be interested to hear from any Pakistan fans about the team selection today. Rehman being preferred to Saeed Ajmal was surprising for me - think Ajmal is a very good ODI bowler. Also perhaps they could lose Hafeez from the batting line-up, have Kamran Akmal open and play an extra bowler. Even with the all-round talents of Afridi and Razzaq they look a bowler light for these conditions. graham.mair@bskyb.com if you want to comment.

Over 15 Gul 0-1-1-0-1lb-0

51-2 - Simon Doull makes a good point in the TV commentary box - the use of Razzaq to open the bowling only really works in conditions where he can swing the ball. In the subcontinent that is usually not going to be the case, therefore, perhaps it would makes sense for the pacier Gul to have first use. Against that is the suggestion that Gul is not a big fan of the new white ball, so perhaps an extra seamer - Wahab Riaz probably - should come into the team at the expense of a batsmen. Pakistan's starting XI today seems to lack balance to me.

Over 14 Rehman 0-0-0-0-0-0

48-2 - Normal service is resumed as Akmal spills the ball behind the stumps but, I think, it flicked Tikolo's pad rather than outside edge on the way through. Tikolo, who has scored three ODI half-centuries on Sri Lankan soil including a couple of 90s, is content to have a look in defence.

Over 13 Gul 1-W-4-1lb-0-0

48-2 - Wicket! Gul picks up what, hopefully, is the first of many wickets in this tournament. Ouma went for a big drive but only succeeded in edging through to wicketkeeper Akmal. The ball was back of a length, too short for the shot. It is almost two in two for Gul as Tikolo inside edges a full, straight delivery past his leg-stump and away for four. Lively stuff from Gul, who has Tikolo jumping around in defence.

Over 12 Rehman 1-0-0-1-1-0

42-1 - Spin is on early in the shape of left-armer Abdur Rehman and it almost proves a masterstroke. Reprieve! Ouma is given out lbw by umpire Llong after missing with an attempted sweep at Rehman's arm ball. He consults with batting partner Obuya before asking for a review of the decision. Hawkeye showed it was bouncing over the stumps and the on-field call is reversed. Have to say it didn't look to be going over to the naked eye - although it was borderline if it hit his pad in line with off-stump or just outside.

Shaun Tiley

"Don't rule Kenya out too much. Just look at Holland and England yesterday, a few duff balls and it's anyone's game. They may not win but they could manage a respectable score."

Over 11 Gul 0-0-1lb-wd-0-0

39-1 - Pakistan have taken the bowling powerplay straight away, therefore the fielding restrictions remain in place for overs 11-15. Umar Gul is into the attack so Shoaib can have a much-needed breather. I am hoping Gul swoops in for a few wickets today as I've backed him at 20/1 to be top wicket taker in the tournament. Akmal almost generates another run out, just missing the stumps this time as Obuya scampers for a leg-bye.

Over 10 Razzaq 0-0-0-0-0-0

37-1 - Wicket! Waters is run out for 17 after unwisely taking on Umar Akmal for a quick single. He dropped the ball into the leg-side and set off but Akmal swooped from midwicket and underarmed his throw onto the stumps, although it only just hit on the top of the bails at the non-striker's end. Waters wasn't close to making his ground despite putting in the dive. New batsman Obuya spars and misses outside off-stump as again Razzaq gets some surprising lift.

Ian in Auckland

"Kenya's top order may survive for a while, but the middle and lower order will collapse against quality bowling. I reckon they may scrape to 125 all out in the 30th."

Over 9 Shoaib 0-1-0-0-0-0

37-0 - Shoaib is pouring with sweat by is going to continue for the moment. He has been above 90mph throughout this spell but this is not a quick pitch and Kenya's openers have adjusted to the extra pace after a few early adventures. Pakistan don't much look like making the breakthrough at the moment.

Over 8 Razzaq 0-0-4-0-1-0

36-0 - Razzaq surprises everyone, including himself, with some extra bounce. Waters, 20, is the best young batsman to have emerged from Kenya for some time and has played for Surrey's 2nd XI, although he has only one half-century in 15 ODIs. He shows his talent by clipping a straight ball over mid-on and away for four.

Mad Bob from Bury

"Kenya are much better than the score would suggest against New Zealand. I think they'll win this one."

Over 7 Shoaib 0-0-1-2-0-0

31-0 - Another decent over from Shoaib but that could be it for his opening spell, not sure he can manage many more than four on the bounce these days.

Over 6 Razzaq 0-0-1-0-2-0

28-0 - Ouma stands stall and eases the ball between backward point and cover for a couple, he has played some attractive strokes during his brief innings.

Over 5 Shoaib wd-0-0-4-0-0

25-0 - Ouma looks distinctly uncomfortable against Shoaib's extra pace, he is late on a hook and the resulting top edge sails over the wicketkeeper's head for four. Kenya lasted just 23.5 overs when being skittled for 69 by New Zealand's seamers on Sunday - will they last longer today? By how much? Send your predictions to graham.mair@bskyb.com. I'm thinking they'll make it to about the 46th over.

Over 4 Razzaq 0-1-1-1-0-0

20-0 - Razzaq looks a bit stiff, he's not really getting through his action. Ouma milks another couple of singles and Waters also picks up one. Not much evidence of swing or seam movement in the early-evening dew as the floodlights start to take effect.

Over 3 Shoaib 0-4b-0-0-0-0-0

17-0 - Pakistan have not covered themselves in glory in the field so far, wicketkeeper Akmal concedes four byes after failing to collect Shoaib's slower-ball bouncer, which bounced just in front of him.

Over 2 Razzaq 3-4-3-1-0-1

13-0 - Another veteran of the side that reached the 1999 World Cup final, Razzaq, shares the new ball. He is decidedly medium pace but has been doing a good job in ODIs during the powerplay overs in last year or so. He doesn't make a good start here, though, Ouma driving his first ball through Afridi at mid-off for three - captain not setting a great example. Waters gets in on the act with a four, also driven past Afridi, who doesn't put in much of an effort to stop it, and then three more punched through point off the back foot.

Over 1 Shoaib 0-1-0-0-0-0

1-0 - Veteran paceman Shoaib takes the new ball for Pakistan and is straight away up to 92mph on the speed gun, doubt Kenya's batsmen get to face this kind of heat too often. Ouma opens his account with a quick tap-and-run single and there are no dramas in the first over.

Innings break

Kenya faded badly in the field after a promising start. In the end they gave away 37 in wides, which equals the ODI record, and will certainly be up against it chasing a target of 318. Their first ambition will be to exceed the 69 all out they managed against New Zealand last Sunday. Join us again at 1315h (GMT) to see how they get on.

Odds update

Our friends at Sky Bet now make Pakistan overwhelming favourites at 1/500, while Kenya are 33/1 to knock these runs off. Cricket odds compiler Tom Warburton says: "Kenya have been really, really, bad. After a promising start, wides and extras took over and they are left with little or no chance in this encounter and can be backed at a juicy 33/1. Pakistan bowlers should make life very tough for Kenya, it's unlikely they'll be used to the pace of Shoaib Akhtar who'll be fired up and keen to impress on the big stage. Can't see past a comfortable victory for Pakistan."

Over 50 Odhiambo 1-5wd-1-1-3-4-0

317-7 - Odhiambo is also feeling generous, adding another five in wides to the Pakistan total, which contains just the 46 extras! Razzaq finds the midwicket boundary with a trademark blow as Pakistan, who were 12-2 at one point, finish on 317-7.

Over 49 Odoyo 2-W-W-5wd-1-1-3wd-1

301-7 - Wicket! Akmal holes out to long-on to end his explosive contribution of 71 from 52 balls. Wicket! Two in two for Odoyo, although he had to call for a review to get rid of Afridi, who was hit on the pad shaping for a big one towards midwicket. Umpire Tony Hill turned down Odoyo's appeal but Hawkeye showed the ball was hitting middle about half-way up. Odoyo gets a bit over-excited and sends the potential hat-trick ball a good metre down the leg-side and away for five wides. Another three in wides brings up Pakistan's 300.

Over 48 Odhiambo 2-1-2-2-1-2

288-5 - Odhiambo is dealing in full tosses and short balls only and, compared to what has gone before in this powerplay, he is relatively successfully. No boundaries at least. The batting powerplay has, however, yielded 71 runs for Pakistan.

Over 47 Kamande 2-4-6-1lb-3wd-W-wd-4

278-5 - Apparently this is the first time four batsmen have scored half-centuries in the same innings at the World Cup - fascinating stuff! Akmal is trying to lash everything, he gets four thanks to some questionable football skills on the boundary and then backs away and clears the extra cover in style for his first six. Wicket! Misbah holes out for 65 to Otieno on the long-on boundary, bringing Afridi out to the middle with 19 deliveries of the innings remaining... Kamande greets him with a wide and Afridi then gets off the mark with a lofted drive for a one-bounce four.

Over 46 Odhiambo 1-4-1-1-1-lb-0

257-4 - Akmal drops the wrists late to cut another boundary - his seventh - through the off-side and complete a 40-ball half-century on his World Cup debut. A single from Misbah later in the over brings up the century stand from 72 deliveries.

Over 45 Otieno 1-4-4-4-2-4nb-0

249-4 - Fine-leg is inside the circle and Akmal takes advantage by getting down on one knee to paddle a full toss over his shoulder to the boundary. He gets four more with a cut through the off side and then makes it three in a row by dispatching a full toss through the covers. Akmal briefly cools down with just a couple from the next delivery but is then back on the boundary trail as another full toss is sent racing away. That was a no-ball on height grounds as well - making it 20 from the over.

Over 44 Odhiambo 1-2-6-0-2-1

229-4 - Pakistan have taken the batting powerplay, meaning the fielding restrictions are back in place for overs 44-48 - expect the bat to be getting thrown at everything. Odhiambo is back on and Misbah ups the tempo by pulling a short ball for six to midwicket.

Over 43 Obuya 1-0-1-1-0-2

217-4 - Leg-spinner Collins Obuya - once, I think, of Warwickshire fame - has had to wait 42 overs for his chance but he's on now. Plenty of flight and loop as Akmal attempts to throw the kitchen sink with limited success. Ouma fluffs a stumping chance, Akmal advanced down the track and missed with a wild swipe but the ball rebounded off the wicketkeeper's shoulder after bouncing more than expected.

Over 42 Tikolo 1-0-1-0-0-0

212-4 - Akmal almost overbalances as he plays defensively and Ouma whips off the bails - the third umpire quickly determined that his foot had not left the crease. Good over from Tikolo, just a couple of singles from it.

Over 41 Ngoche 1-1-1-0-1-1

210-4 - Ngoche is now back on for the final instalment of his 10-over allocation as Kenya continue with spin for the time being. Akmal lets out a high-pitched squeal and then kicks at the footmarks after failing to get hold of a full toss. Misbah also misses out on a full toss as just five singles are taken from the over. Ngoche finishes with respectable figures of 1-46.

Over 40 Tikolo 1-0-1-0-0-2

205-4 - Misbah ends the over with a couple into the leg-side to complete the 50 partnership with Akmal from just 38 balls. Pakistan have the wickets in hand to go all out from here - plus the batting powerplay is still to come.

Over 39 Kamande 1-1-4-1-1-0

201-4 - Akmal, having changed his spikes and dispensed with all headwear, takes advantage of a short ball, pulling it in front of midwicket for four. Anything short from the spinners has disappeard but, when they have been otherwise tough to get after.

Over 38 Tikolo 4-0-1-1-0-1

193-4 - Akmal steps away and dispatches a flashing cut to the boundary - high class stroke. Should Pakistan use the batting powerplay soon? Or wait until Afridi or Razzaq come in?

Over 37 Kamande 5wd-0-1-0-2-1

186-4 - Kamande hauls Odoyo out of the attack after just an over and brings himself back on. But he is also guilty of firing the ball down the leg-side for yet another five in wides - poor old Ouma had no chance. Misbah is always alert to the chance of two, this time after turning the ball behind square on the leg-side.

Over 36 Tikolo 2-2-1-0-1-1

177-4 - The runs are flowing at the moment, Misbah again getting some reverse sweep action for a couple and also picking up two with a lofted stroke to midwicket.

Over 35 Odoyo 5wd-0-5wd-0-1-0-2-0

170-4 - Odoyo returns for his second spell, seems a bit strange to take Ngoche off after a nine-over stint. Why not just bowl him through as he was doing a decent job? Odoyo makes a nightmare start, the ball slipping out of the side of his hand and disappearing for five in wides. That prompts wicketkeeper Ouma to drop back after standing up the stumps for the first ball - a wise man. Odoyo's second delivery is right on the spot but then he shoves another one down the leg-side, well out of Ouma's reach, and again away for five in wides. Misbah finds it all quite amusing, the Kenyans don't seem as amused.

Over 34 Tikolo 1-0-2-W-0-2

157-4 - A misfield allows Younus to turn one into two and complete his 40th ODI half-century (66b, 2x4) - but first in the World Cup. Wicket! Younus does not add any more, however, as umpire Nigel Llong raises the finger to Tikolo's lbw appeal from the very next delivery. Younus, who was looking to sweep, is not convinced makes the "t-signal" for a review. But replays only confirm Llong was correct with Hawkeye showing the ball hitting leg-stump. Umar Akmal is the new batsman and gets off the mark with a cut for two in front of square.

Over 33 Ngoche 1-0-1-0-0-1

152-3 - Ngoche's ninth over on the spin takes us through to the second drinks break - much needed for the players in these energy-sapping conditions. Pakistan have a nice platform from which to launch an all-assault, they will have their sights on at least 280 - but 300+ is not totally out of the question given the likes of Umar Akmal, Razzaq and Afridi are still to come.

Over 32 Tikolo 0-0-0-0-0-1

149-3 - Tikolo speeds his way through another over, Misbah is unable to find a way through the in-field until the final ball when an aerial drive into the covers gets him a single. There was a "catch it" shout but unfortunately for Kenya no fielder was in the vicinity.

Over 31 Ngoche 1-0-4-2-1-0

148-3 - A rare mistake from Ngoche, he drops it short and Misbah is only too happy to send a pull racing away to midwicket. The young left-arm spinner has otherwise been a model of accuracy, although he doesn't generate much turn. It will be interesting to see what Pakistan's spinners make of this pitch later on.

Over 30 Tikolo 1-1-0-2-1-0

140-3 - Tikolo used to be a useful seam bowler but, at the ripe old age of 39, he has now turned his hand to off-spin. His twirlers are handy, but nothing more. Good use of the feet from Younus, making room to cut for a couple.

Neil Stratton

"What's wrong here is the format. Each associated nation is guaranteed 6 matches. That doesn't happen in the soccer and rugby world cups. I suggest 9 test playing nations plus 3 associates making 12 in all. And a revised format that produces fewer landslides and unwatched matches. I mean, how big a crowd do they expect for Canada vs Kenya?"

Over 29 Ngoche 0-2-0-2-1-1

135-3 - Misbah is obsessed with the reverse sweep - he plays it well but, with a fielder at short third-man, is it really worth the risk? Younus is happy milking the spinners, he looks to have all the time in the world to play his shots.

Over 28 Tikolo 1-1-1-1-1-0

129-3 - Younus, on 41, has already advanced to his highest score in the World Cup, he has not exactly set the tournament alight in his previous appearances at the one-day showpiece.

Over 27 Ngoche 2-1-1-1-0-1

124-3 - Misbah pulls the reverse sweep out of the bag for the second time in his brief stay, this time he even makes contact and picks up a couple. Otherwise it's just singles.

Over 26 Kamande 1nb-6-0-0-0-0-1

118-3 - Steve Tikolo is into the attack to bowl some off-spin. He oversteps first ball, allowing Misbah to get off the mark in some style, depositing the subsequent free hit for six back over the bowler's head. Wicketkeeper Maurice Ouma drops what looked like a thin edge from Misbah, the Kenyan reaction certainly suggests it was a chance.

Over 25 Ngoche 1-0-1-W-0-0

109-3 - Wicket! Total brain freeze from Akmal. He charged down the track and, with the ball well outside off-stump, missed by a long way with his attempt to heave it towards midwicket. Totally unexpected and unecessary, a gift for Kenya. Misbah-ul-Haq, making his World Cup debut at the age of 37, blocks his first two deliveries.

Over 24 Kamande 0-1-1-0-0-4

107-2 - Akmal completes his half-century (62b, 4x4) with a back-foot punch down the ground for a single. It is just the third time a Pakistan wicketkeeper has scored a World Cup 50. Although wicketkeeper is perhaps a generous description for some of Akmal's glovework. Kamande finishes the over with a misdirected delivery that Akmal is able to help on its way to the fine-leg boundary.

Over 23 Ngoche 0-2-0-1-wd-0-1

101-2 - Ngoche is throwing it up (he has to as he is fairly short) but is getting no purchase off the surface. Sharp running turns one into two for Younus, who then brings up Pakistan's 100 with drive down to long-off.

Over 22 Kamande 2-0-1-1-1-1

96-2 - Pakistan have not attempted any big shots since the fielding restrictions were relaxed. Just content to build in ones and twos without taking any chances. Given the firepower still to come lower down the order - and the batting powerplay to be used at some point - that is certainly a sensible approach.

Over 21 Ngoche 2-0-0-1-0-0

90-2 - Akmal cuts late and delicately for a couple and then rotates the strike with a sweep. Younus can't pierce the in-field with a pair of drives so just three from the over. Kenya's spinners are not wasting their time - tough for me to keep up!

Pieter le Roux

"I have to say I agree with Peter. It is a must for the long term. There will be mismatches but there will also be great upsets and good matches showcased between the lesser teams. Also for them it is not as much about winning the tournament, rather gathering valuable experience. How can a sport truly grow if we always let the weak play against the weak and the strong against the strong? Look at the sevens rugby circuit, all of a sudden you have unknown teams competing for trophies. Imagine if we had 10 teams competing, all with a decent chance of lifting the trophy."

Over 20 Kamande wd-0-1-1-4-0-0

87-2 - Younus has dispensed with his helmet, always enjoy seeing the big boys batting in caps for some reason. Not a great over from Kamande, starts with a wide and is later swept off leg-stump for four by Younus.

Over 19 Ngoche 1-1-0-0-0-1

80-2 - Not much evidence of turn from either spinner - although it is probably fair to say they are not giving it much of a rip. Younus and Akmal keep it on the carpet for a trio of singles.

Over 18 Kamande 3-0-1-0-3-1

77-2 - Spin at both ends as the skip brings himself on to bowl some off-spin. He is generally too short, allowing Akmal to twice cut for three, the second time a genuine outside edge that flies through the vacant slip region.

Over 17 Ngoche 0-1-0-1-1-1

69-2 - With the field set back, Kenya immediately turn to their diminutive left-arm spinner Shem Ngoche. He is just 21 and has only played six ODIs. He starts off by giving it plenty of air, risk-free singles are again the order of the day for Pakistan.

Over 16 Odhiambo 0-1-wd-0-0-1-1

65-2 - Younus pushes a single into the leg side to complete the 50 partnership from 54 balls - it has been a very impressive counter-attack, led by Akmal, from the depths of 12-2. The fielding restrictions have been relaxed (just three men plus the wicketkeeper must now be inside the circle). Pakistan, who are keeping the batting powerplay up their sleeve for the time being, are content to deal in singles - that is likely to be the pattern for a while.

Over 15 Otieno 0-1-0-0-0-2

61-2 - Should have mentioned earlier that Kenya took the bowling powerplay straight away, therefore the fielding restrictions have been in place for overs 11-15. Otieno continues to steam in, even manages to get Akmal ducking under a bouncer - first one of the match. There is a man back on the square-leg place waiting for the mis-hook. Akmal drives pleasantly for a couple down the ground to finish the over.

Willem Jordaan

"I believe that the exposure the smaller countries get from playing in a world cup, is invaluable to them. It also helps with expanding cricket in those countries when their team is playing in a world cup. However if the mismatches are really such a big issue, maybe they can have qualifying games between the small countries. Almost like countries qualifying for the soccer world cup. Let Kenya, Canada, Ireland and the Netherlands for example play each other first and the top 2 teams advance to the world cup."

Pat Cremin

"I have to agree Peter Sullivan. Getting rid of the "minnows" is a stupid move. The interest in the WC this time around in Ireland may not be huge, but, for those that had their interest peaked last time out, the fact that we are now "thrown out", will just reinforce why they shouldn't have bothered getting interested with the game in the first place."

Over 14 Odhiambo 4-0-0-1-1-0

58-2 - Akmal drives behind square for his fourth boundary - he wasn't in a great position to play the shot but just followed through anyway and made the adjustment with his hands. Time for drinks in Hambantota - Pakistan have fought back impressively after a poor start.

Over 13 Otieno 0-3-0-0-1-0-0

52-2 - Younus drives between cover and mid-off for three and Akmal gets another single to square-leg. Otieno has really impressed me - consistently above 80mph, accurate and has generated some decent bounce. Hasn't looked out of place at all.

Over 12 Odhiambo 0-0-4-0-0-0

48-2 - More aggression from Akmal, who lifts a length ball from outside off-stump to the midwicket boundary. Odhiambo has settled down after nightmare start. Anyone care to respond to Peter's comments (see below) regarding the presence of the associate nations at the World Cup - have to say I'm not a big fan as it creates too many mismatches (although not yesterday to be fair), particularly in the 50-over format. But they have also provided some great stories - Ireland at the last tournament and Kenya in 2003 spring readily to mind. graham.mair@bskyb.com if you've got a view.

Peter Sullivan

"The opening couple of overs is just another example of why the decision to get rid of the Assoc sides for the next WC is ridiculous. Granted Pakistan will more than likely still win but as with Holland yesterday and surely Ireland later in the tournament big teams will eventually roll. If Assoc teams don't get this valuable experience then it'll just be another cricket competition for the minority. C'mon Keyna!"

Over 11 Otieno 0-1-0-0-2-1

44-2 - Change of ends for Otieno, who has impressed thus far. Akmal is playing an aggressive shot at every ball, he cuts for a couple and retains the strike with a single driven down the ground from the final delivery. Amazing how much better a batsman he is in one-day cricket than in Tests.

Over 10 Odhiambo 4nb-0-1-1nb-4nb-4-0-0

40-2 - Nehemiah Odhiambo, another bustling medium pacer, replaces Otieno. Not a good start from the dreadlocked seamer as Younus drives a no-ball back down the ground for four. The over goes downhill from there - he oversteps again and the subsequent free-hit is a full toss that Akmal smashes to the square-leg boundary. Another full-toss is given similar treatment by Akmal, this time back over the bowler's head. Finishes off with a couple of dots but 16 from the over means Kenya have somewhat let Pakistan off the hook.

Over 9 Odoyo 3-0-0-2-wd-0-0

24-2 - Odoyo, who had been a model of consistency in his first four overs, loses the plot somewhat. Younus is denied a boundary by a diving stop from Otieno - not sure he didn't touch the rope in the process but the third umpire doesn't seem to agree. Akmal flicks a full toss into the leg-side for two and Odoyo then shoves a wide down the leg-side after seeing Akmal advance.

Over 8 Otieno 0-3-0-0-1-2

18-2 - Akmal, who tends to play his shots regardless of the situation, drives down the ground for three. Have watched quite a bit of Pakistan in recent years and the one thing I can say with certainty is I've no idea what to expect from them - today is already shaping up to be a prime example. Younus opens his account with a single to square-leg and Akmal drives again, this time for a couple.

Over 7 Odoyo 0-0-0-0-W-0

12-2 - Wicket! Shehzad's tortured stay is over. He takes a step down the pitch and tries to turn a straight ball into the leg-side but only succeeds in looping a leding edge to Kamande at mid-off. He managed one off 18 balls after I tipped him up as the man to watch - thanks Ahmed! Younus Khan is the new batsman, plenty of work for him to do.

Over 6 Otieno 0-1-W-0-0nb-0-0

12-1 - Shehzad finally opens his account with a thick edge for a single from his 13th ball faced. Wicket! Hafeez is gone - he chips a catch to midwicket where Seren Waters takes a juggling catch airborne at full stretch. The third umpire was required to confirm the catch was clean as Waters briefly lost control, the ball rolled off his arm and he was able to grasp it at the second attempt. Kamran Akmal is the new batsman and fails to take advantage of a free-hit after Otieno overstepped - he drilled it along the ground straight to mid-off.

HRH Prince Amar

"Pakistan should overcome the mighty Kenyans in this match. It will be a close encounter!"

Over 5 Odoyo 0-0-4-0-0-0

10-0 - Hafeez finds the boundary for the first time, lifting the ball off his hip and away to the square-leg fence. Odoyo responds with an lbw shout, Hafeez was safe as the ball - which nipped back and kept a touch low - hit him outside the line of off-stump as he offered a defensive prod.

Over 4 Otieno 0-0-0-0-0-0

6-0 - Otieno is straining every sinew of his body and is generating some decent carry through to the wicketkeeper. Teenage opener Shehzad, who has scored two centuries recently, has faced 11 balls and is yet to get off the mark - he's not attempted an attacking stroke yet! Back-to-back maidens from Kenya.

Martyn Hooper

"I predict a Pakistan total of 288-4 and a Kenyan reply of 96 all out. My money is down on Shehzad for top runscorer in the game so I'm cheering him on!"

Over 3 Odoyo 0-0-0-0-0-0

6-0 - There is just a hint of away shape for Odoyo, who has two slips in place. Nothing in the pitch for the seam bowlers that is for sure. It may be more helpful for the spinners, we will see, but it looks chock full of runs. Hafeez is a touch fortunate as he chips the final ball of Odoyo's maiden over in the air with a very odd looking shot - it falls safely over the bowlers head but short of mid-off.

Yousaf Mahmood

"I think Pakistan will play cautiously and end up making a meal of it however the end result will be that Pakistan win it."

Over 2 Otieno 0-1lb-1-0-0-0

6-0 - Elijah Otieno is Kenya's fastest bowler, which is not saying a great deal. He is up at 80mph and on the spot straight away. Shem Ngoche is all smiles after being hit on the head attempting to field the ball at mid-on - not sure why he found that so funny, he went down to pick the ball up and it hit a bump in the outfield. Looked nasty.

Over 1 Odoyo 0-0-0-0-2-2

4-0 - Veteran seamer Thomas Odoyo takes the first over. Very gentle start as Mohammad Hafeez is content to get on the front foot and have an early look at some 75mph wobblers. Hafeez opens Pakistan's account with a couple to midwicket and then gets another two, driven into the covers.

Anthems

After a lovely rendition of the Kenyan anthem, the players - both sides dressed in green - are ready to go.

Hambantota

This is just the second ODI to be held at Hambantota's new ground, which was built specifically for the World Cup. Sri Lanka christened the venue on Sunday by crushing Canada by 210 runs. It is hot and humid down on Sri Lanka's south coast and there is not a blade of grass to be seen on the pitch.

Shock

If you're memory doesn't stretch back four years then let me remind you - Ireland beat Pakistan in one of the great World Cup shocks. And the tournament was overshadowed when Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer died the next day.

Feedback

Please, please send me an e-mail at graham.mair@bskyb.com if you've got anything to say about today's game. Does anyone think Kenya can bounce back from being bowled out for 69 against New Zealand four days ago and make a game of it? Remember what happened last time Pakistan played an associate nation at the World Cup?

Odds update

Our friends at Sky Bet offer in-play betting on a range of markets. Pakistan start as strong favourites at 1/33, with Kenya at 10/1. Perhaps the value is to be found in the Pakistan most runs market - I suggest a wager on in-form opener Ahmed Shehzad at 5/2.

Teams

Pakistan, as promised, have named a full-strength line-up. The only slight surprise is the decision to omit off-spinner Saeed Ajmal. They have named just three specialist bowlers - Umar Gul, Shoaib Akhtar and Abdur Rehman - but also have plenty of all-rounders to pick up the slack. Kenya have made just one change to the XI that was embarrassed by New Zealand on Sunday. Opening batsman Alex Obanda has made way for Tanmay Mishra.

Toss

Pakistan have won the toss and opted to bat first. Shahid Afridi had no hesitation in making first use of what looks a very dry pitch in Hambantota. Kenya skipper Jimmy Kamande admitted he would also liked to have had a bat.

Good morning

Welcome to over-by-over commentary on the World Cup Group A fixture between Kenya and Pakistan. Play starts at 0900h (GMT), team news and toss to follow shortly.